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Cost of Living in Mahaska County

Is it better to rent or buy in Mahaska County? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$70,397
$782/mo

Median in area: $782

$151,795

Median in area: $151,795

$30,359

If you Rent

🔑
$1,011 /mo
Base Rent$782
Est. Utilities$229
% of Income17.2%
Pre-tax Residual$4,855

If you Buy

🏠
$1,283 /mo
P&I (7.166%)$822
Taxes & Ins$232
Est. Utilities$229
% of Income21.9%
Pre-tax Residual$4,584

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Mahaska County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyMonroe County, IA
$804/mo
countyWapello County, IA
$947/mo
countyPoweshiek County, IA
$887/mo
countyMarion County, IA
$891/mo
countyKeokuk County, IA
$802/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Mahaska County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Mahaska County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,011, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,283 per month (a difference of $272).

How much do utilities cost in Mahaska County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Mahaska County is approximately $229. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Mahaska County?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Mahaska County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $40,440 per year.